Suitability of Different Observational Lenses for Viewing the Macular Area Through Multifocal Intraocular Lenses in a Model of the Human Eye

PURPOSE: Multifocal intraocular lenses (IOLs) can potentially affect the intraoperative view of the retina. We investigated the suitability of different lenses for viewing the macular area through two multifocal intraocular lenses in a human eye model. METHODS: This study compared the image quality of graduated index (0.1 mm) in a model eye when viewed through refractive or diffractive multifocal IOLs with a meniscus or flat contact lens, and a wide field 60 diopter non-contact lens or wide field contact lens (Super Macula(®)). RESULTS: Images acquired through the meniscus contact lens or flat contact lens via the central optical zone of the refractive multifocal IOL or the diffractive multifocal IOL were well focused. However, images viewed through these lenses near the center were warped and out of focus. All images viewed through a wide-field 60 diopter non-contact lens at the central optical zone and near the center were slightly out of focus. All images viewed through the Super Macula at the central optical zone and near the center were well focused. CONCLUSION: A wide field contact lens (Super Macula(®)) made it possible to obtain clear images of the macular area at multiple focal points through refractive or diffractive multifocal IOLs.